Enchin’s Secular Family Tree (Enchin zokusho keizu)Additions by Enchin
Ink on Paper / One Scroll of Seven Sheets
- original
- transcription
Japan's Oldest Vertical Family Tree
This depicts the family tree of the Imiki-no-Obito Clan from Sanuki Province, later known as the Wakekimi family, from which Chisho Daishi Enchin originated. This vertical family tree, written lengthwise over seven sheets of paper, traces about 18 generations from Emperor Keiko to Enchin and is the oldest existing historical document of its kind. Enchin's own writings are found throughout the scroll, indicating his constant attention to his lineage. According to these writings, it was commissioned during the Jowa period (834–848), and it states that the Wakekimi family name was conferred in 866.
- Category
- National Treasure
- Era
- Heian period (9th century)
- Measurements
- 29.1 × 324.0 cm
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Rank Credential and Draft of Imperial Decree for the Rank of Hogen Monk (Hougen kajo-i iki narabini chokusho an)
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Appointment Document for the Head of Shingon Buddhism Studies (Shingon gakuto’o buninjo)